Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG): Proposed Government Updates Explained 🌿
The Government has announced a series of proposed updates to Biodiversity Net Gain requirements for planning. Aimed at making the process more practical and proportionate. Particularly for smaller developments and brownfield sites.
(above: B (the LED Office Dog) on a research trip at Steps Bridge, Dartmoor
Since BNG became mandatory in 2024, most developments in England have been required to deliver at least a 10% improvement in biodiversity. The policy supports long-term environmental recovery and is a fantastic tool, protecting and enhancing our natural environment, health and wellbeing. However at LED Architects we have found the complexity, cost (both of developing acceptable BNG strategies, the cost of offsetting and the 30yr ongoing monitoring) and delay to planning applications has been significant. In some cases, the way the metrics are calculated for smaller sites has created unintended barriers and reduced the viability of projects that would have otherwise provided considerable environmental, social sustainable benefit. With these government changes it appears that some of the frustrations felt by developers, local authorities and our school clients will be removed.
Among the proposed changes are:
✅ A potential exemption for sites under 0.2 hectares
✅ Greater flexibility around off-site biodiversity improvements
✅ Simplified requirements for certain temporary developments
✅ Future consideration of exemptions for some brownfield residential schemes
✅ A move toward more streamlined digital BNG tools and guidance
The Government has confirmed that some changes are expected to come into effect from 31 July 2026, while consultation on potential brownfield exemptions remains open until 10 June 2026.
Importantly, the core principle of Biodiversity Net Gain will remain in place, with the intention of balancing environmental improvements alongside the need to support housing delivery and regeneration projects.
At LED Architects, we understand how evolving planning policy can affect development viability, project timescales and planning strategy from the outset.
If you’re considering a project and would like advice on current planning or BNG requirements, our team is always here to help.
